What can be done to tackle traffic congestion during the Boat Racing Festival?

The Boat Racing Festival has seen traffic sometimes grind to a halt around the Mekong River. This year more police will be on duty to direct traffic and keep the roads clear, but will this make a difference? Vientiane Times took to the streets to ask locals for their thoughts on improving traffic flow.

 

Ms Vone Larmixay, a government official in Xaythany district: It’s true that traffic becomes congested during the festival every year, especially on roads near the Mekong such as Samsenthai, Khouvieng and Road 13 North. But there are roads that people can use to avoid bottlenecks and those who aren’t heading to the festival should avoid congested areas. Furthermore, all drivers should respect the regulations and look out for each other so that problems and accidents can be avoided.
 
Ms Hunny Panyachack, a resident of Pakngum district: Of course, traffic is always very congested during the festival.  It’s a big event and people from across the country come to Vientiane to enjoy the fun and watch the races. It would be good if the authorities informed people about ways to get to the river without having to sit in a traffic jam.   
 
Mr Maidaa Xaiyavong, a government official in Xaysettha district: I’ve heard that the police have plans to reduce traffic congestion during the festival, but I remember hearing the same thing in previous years. But this is a very difficult problem to resolve, especially as many road users don’t respect the traffic laws. In addition, many people don’t take any notice of announcements about the traffic arrangements made by the police. If everyone followed the advice given, may the tedious traffic jams could be avoided. 
 
Ms Soukdavanh, a resident of Xaythany district: The festival is a big and important event in Vientiane and attracts many people, so of course the riverside area becomes congested. If the police closed off some roads to vehicles altogether maybe the situation would improve. I think if everyone used public transport to get to the festival that would also make things easier. It’s cheaper, and if everyone took a bus, the roads would be less congested.

Lieutenant Colonel Vilaphong Saneha, Chief of the Vientiane Police Office: This year we are stationing almost 270 police officers around the Mekong River. They will keep the roads clear and will direct traffic throughout the event. In addition, officers will be on duty at 53 police posts.  to deal with any accidents or incidents as they occur. We urge all road users to respect the regulations and follow police officers’ instructions. Very often it is accidents which cause congestion on the roads. We also ask festival-goers to be mindful of their safety and to watch out for pickpockets and bag snatchers. Pickpocketing is the most commonly reported crime during the festival each year.

By Lamphone Pasanthong
(Latest Update October 10, 2022)